The National Commission for Human Rights visited the University of Lay Adventists of Kigali (UNILAK) Today on 03 March 2026 as part of its national human rights awareness campaign. The visit is part of a countrywide program aimed at teaching young people about basic human rights and encouraging them to become defenders of justice in their communities.
After meeting secondary school students last week, the Commission turned its attention to university students. The goal was to help students understand what human rights are, why they matter, and how they can protect them in their daily lives and future careers.
The event brought together students from different faculties, including law, business, and other departments.
During the session, students were taught about basic human rights such as the right to life, the right to freedom, and equality before the law. They also discussed the responsibility that comes with rights that one person’s rights end where another person’s rights begin.
The Chairperson of the National Commission for Human Rights, Providence Umurungi, explained that universities play a very important role in shaping the future of the country.
She explained that this campaign is focused on raising awareness among young people. She said secondary schools were first targeted to discuss children’s rights and the prevention of teenage pregnancy. Now the focus has moved to universities because students there are future leaders, researchers, and policymakers.
“ We are in the middle of our human rights awareness week. Last week we were in secondary schools, and this week we are in universities. University students are young adults who will soon become leaders, decision-makers, and professionals. We want them to understand what human rights are, the principles behind them, and how they can protect these rights in their daily lives and future work. They must think about human rights in everything they do. We also want them to know that the Commission is here to support them if rights are violated. We see them as partners for the future. ” Providence Umurungi said
Students also shared their experiences. Himbaza Shami Philipe, a second-year law student, said the event helped bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-life practice, he explained that law students learn about rights in books, but meeting officials from the Commission gives them real examples and professional connections.
“ In class we learn theory about rights like the right to life, the right to freedom, and equality before the law. But when the National Commission for Human Rights comes here, we understand how these rights are protected in real life. We were able to ask questions and even learn about internship opportunities. It helps us prepare for our future careers and understand how we can protect people’s rights both in Rwanda and internationally. ” He said
International students Yaar Maddock model a law student from South Africa, said knowing human rights is important for every student, not only law students. she explained that UNILAK has many students from countries that have experienced conflict or different human rights challenges. She said Rwanda’s example offers lessons for others.
“ Knowing your human rights is not only for lawyers. Every student should know their rights because at any time those rights can be abused. Rwanda is one of the countries in Africa that has worked hard to rebuild and respect human rights, especially after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. We have learned about Gacaca courts and other systems that helped the country heal. As international students, we can learn from Rwanda and maybe take some of these ideas back to our home countries. I think Rwanda is doing well, and I do not have recommendations at the moment. ” She said
Other students Manzi Bob Dylan said they have basic knowledge of human rights, such as the right of a suspect not to be beaten and the rights of children to be protected from abuse. Through the university’s Legal Clinic Club, law students already visit communities to teach citizens about laws and help them avoid legal problems.
University leaders also noted that students from different cultures sometimes struggle with strict rules in Rwanda. However, over time they learn to respect the law and adapt to the country’s strong discipline and respect for rights.
The visit was welcomed by university leaders. Mbanda Steven, who is in charge of student affairs at UNILAK, explained that the event will help students not only in class but also in the community.
“ This activity helps our students gain more knowledge. When they go outside the university to help communities, they need to understand human rights clearly. Sometimes students meet situations where rights are violated, and they must know what to do. This knowledge from the Commission will strengthen our students and give them confidence. It will also encourage them to do research and understand how rights work in real life, not only in theory. ” He said
The National Commission for Human Rights plans to continue its visits to other universities across the country until the end of the week.
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